McLeish plays up Bruce achievements

14 April 2011 03:29

Alex McLeish has downplayed claims he has surpassed the achievements of Steve Bruce at Birmingham ahead of Saturday's relegation clash with Sunderland at St. Andrew's.
McLeish has come in for plentiful praise for his efforts in three full seasons at Blues - gaining promotion, a highest ever top-flight finish and winning the Carling Cup.
But he is quick to acknowledge the job done by Bruce at City in six years before replacing him midway through the 2007/08 campaign.
McLeish said: "People suggest to me I have surpassed what Steve achieved here and my response is 'have I?' Listen, Steve kept Birmingham in the top division for four seasons in a row.
"It was an amazing feat because I know the difficulties of managing a smaller club and the resources that go with that.
"You can see at certain moments that you are definitely punching above your weight but that's what makes it a fantastic challenge."